Beautiful Antique Bumble Bee Venetian Wound Glass African Trade Bead

Discover the beauty of this antique Venetian wound glass trade bead, known for its vibrant "Bumble Bee" trail decoration. This bead was used in the African trade during the late 1800s to early 1900s, making it a highly sought-after collectible for both historians and jewelry designers alike. The bead’s eye-catching yellow and black design, reminiscent of a bumble bee, is a classic example of Venetian craftsmanship.

• Size: 23mm length x 12mm diameter
• Condition: Excellent condition with a few air bubbles (see photos)

The technique used to create this lampwork bead, also known as wound glass, dates back centuries in Venice. Skilled artisans would wind molten glass around a metal rod, then meticulously apply decorative trails, resulting in unique beads like this one. These glass beads played a crucial role in African trade, particularly in Ghana, where they were exchanged for goods and became symbols of wealth and status.

Explore more Venetian Lampwork beads and historical trade beads from TribalGH below:

• Current Venetian Lampwork Trade Beads
• Explore All Trade Beads for Sale
• Archived Venetian Lampwork Trade Beads